Discussion

Short ribs - Niman Ranch?

Hi all - I'm planning a menu for my parent's wedding anniversary and have decided on doing braised short ribs. I'm looking for quality short ribs and have some doubts as to the type I'll find at the local supermarket (located in the PHX metro area). That said, does anyone have experience using Niman Ranch short ribs? Are they worth the premium? I know this is a subjective question and I'm looking for subjective feedback. Also, any tips would be helpful when cooking them, this will be a first. Thanks in advance!

I wouldn't waste money on Niman Ranch short ribs...if your local PHX Costco carries boneless short ribs, you can't miss. Some cuts just don't justify the high price. Cook them (after browning) in red wine and beef broth, with 10-15 garlic cloves. Some use a mirepwah (sp) for added flavor. Cook 2-3 hours at 300 degrees. I have used many brands of short ribs, and Costco is the best.

Mirepoix. Costco meats are generally good quality, since they are choice grade instead of the "select" grade supermarkets carry. Niman is ungraded, I believe. I've cooked with Niman short ribs and they came out well, but I don't have any basis of comparison, so I can't say whether they were worth the premium.

If the OP is braising the shortribs, the bones are an important part of the equation since they add flavor, body and unctuous-ness. If you do go bone-less be sure to throw in some oxtails or similar cut.

have nothing to say bout costco meats but i can only say to beware that Niman ranch's beef is NOT 100% grass-fed. their website seems to make a big deal of their pasturing and grass-feeding, etc. but they are not 100% and if you read the fine print even on their own site you will see that they are finished with grain. just so you know, yknow?

I would add that Niman Ranch is well known for the fact that its animals are raised slowly on grass and then finished on corn. They don't try and hide it and don't say they raise 100% grass fed. Personally, I think this is what makes their meat superior to many other labels and this is why their meat is widely used in better restaurants. Much of 100% grass fed beef remains inconsisent and poorly marbled.